Notes by $ Phiri
User Interface Design
A user interface is the boundary between the user and a computer system. It allows us
to communicate with the computer, and vice versa. There are many types of user
interfaces, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Some are outlined below.
1. Graphical User Interface (GUI)
A Graphical User Interface is common in desktop computers, tablets, mobiles, TVs, set
top boxes, photocopiers, car entertainment systems, and sat navs etc. Graphical user
interfaces are recognisable by their use of windows, icons, menus and pointers (WIMP).
Windows An area of the screen devoted to a specific task, e.g.
an open app or dialog box
Icons An image used to represent a program, file or task. The
icon can be selected to open the program, file or task
Menus Words on the screen which represent a list of options that
can be expanded into further sub-menus
Pointers The method of representing movement from a pointing
device such as a mouse or human finger on a touch
screen. The pointer is also used to select and manipulate
objects on the screen
Advantages of a GUI
Intuitive to use,
Easy to learn (due to commands represented as images and menus).
Disadvantages of a GUI
Can be restrictive, especially when attempting unusual tasks.
Sometimes require a lot of computer memory.
Slower than Command Line Interface
2. Command Line Interface (CLI)
A Command Line Interface allows the user to enter text commands into the
computer. The computer responds with text based results.
Advantages of a CLI
Uses very little memory to operate.
Great for technical users who wish to carry out complex tasks quickly.
Requires less memory for processing
Requires less processing power
Disadvantages of a CLI
Can be difficult to learn and use as you have to know all of the text commands.
Easy to make errors.